YOU Belong, Take Your Seat at The Table: Perspectives #BlackWomenSTEM

Friday, October 24, 2025

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM CT

Location: MCCNO 265-268

Moderator(s)

Leteshia Lowe

Senior Technical Staff Member (STSM)
IBM
Richmond, United States

Speaker(s)

Renita Horton, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Biomedical Engineering/Director, Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering Lab
University of Houston
Houston, United States
Charisma Edwards, Ph.D.

Technology Strategist
Microsoft Alumni
Houston, United States
Karen Reeder

Lead Project Manager Supply Chain Activation and Engineering
Target
Houston, United States

Studies show that Black women are underrepresented in STEM and, in particular, pursuing engineering degrees at lower rates. We face a unique set of challenges that intersect across race/ethnicity, gender, and culture that can be overwhelming for young professionals to navigate. From imposter syndrome, to microaggressions in the workplace, to code switching, transiting through multiple stages of your career without the much needed support and guidance can be difficult. With varied career experiences and perspectives, the panelists will share their personal stories of being a black woman in STEM and lessons learned. Join this amazing group of women, all with different backgrounds, as they provide insight on how you can develop your own success strategies. Get empowered and encouraged from Black women in STEM as they inspire you to take your seat at the table and know that YOU belong.

Learning Objectives:

Identify challenges Black women in STEM face in early career.
Recognize how to grow support networks throughout different career stages.
Plan and develop personal success strategies to succeed in STEM.